Acura

“the handle comes up, the hammer comes down”  by Doug Aitken

Take a close look at the subject that is our fate — an unassuming parking lot. So the question is posed, where are we going when the hammer comes down?

Words were everywhere on the work at Pier 92 and 94 — the site of the Armory Show. What struck me about Doug Aitken’s piece is the use of provocative imagery accompanying strong statements and big, looming words, like fate. Words are driving the contemporary fairs like the Armory and Miami Art Basel. Copy cat neon signs are all over, but also cheeky creative phrasing like this piece that turns the use of messaging on its back: FREE BEER. Many of the guests, however, were sipping on free champagne.

I cruised through the Armory Show VIP preview this morning.  Large scale art fairs like this one tend to present an overwhelming assembly of art in a relatively small space. When it’s said and done, it’s difficult to remember what was on display.  After a few laps, I decided to approach this particular viewing from a singular perspective. I would look for work influenced by cars.

“The Crossing” by Robert & Shana Parkeharrison

“Any Given Sunday” by Guillermo Munoz Vera was moving. Vera is a native of Conception, Chile who lives and works in Madrid. Realism abounds with oil on canvas.

Perhaps this is not what this artist intended– but this work said “walking engine” to me.

Then I came to the Acura booth. I thought the subtle blend of car and art was interesting and definitely unobtrusive. The engineered art was nestled into a corner booth.  Acura is the title sponsor of the Armory Show.  However, they did not sponsor my VIP pass (That invitation came from Pommery.)

More art on Gotryke:

Jeff Koons to Create BMW Art Car

Site Unseen Miami Art Basel Murals

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